Cost of Living in Waukegan
Waukegan's cost of living runs genuinely, substantially more affordable than its wealthier North Shore neighbors, though its property tax rate still runs elevated relative to its lower home values.
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Learn moreGenuinely Affordable Housing, Distinct From the North Shore
Waukegan's median home value ran approximately $190,900 -- roughly 57% of the national average, and genuinely, substantially below Highland Park or Lake Forest.
A Real, Lower Combined Sales Tax
Waukegan's combined sales tax rate ran approximately 8.5% -- genuinely lower than every Cook County suburb documented elsewhere in this project's Illinois buildout (Schaumburg, Evanston, and Oak Park all run 10%+).
A Real, Elevated Property Tax Rate Despite Lower Home Values
Waukegan's median effective property tax rate ran approximately 2.89% -- genuinely elevated, producing an average annual bill of approximately $4,212 despite the city's lower home values.
Key takeaways
- Waukegan's median home value ($190,900) runs genuinely, substantially below its wealthier North Shore neighbors.
- Waukegan's combined sales tax (approximately 8.5%) runs genuinely lower than Cook County suburbs in this project.
- Property tax runs elevated (approximately 2.89% effective) despite Waukegan's lower home values.
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